Pancreatitis pain is primarily located in the upper abdomen, often in the middle or left side of the tummy (abdomen). This pain can be severe and may radiate or spread to the back, sometimes below the left shoulder blade. It is often described as a burning, shooting, or aching pain that can come on suddenly or gradually and may last for hours or days
. Details on the pain location and characteristics:
- The pancreas is located behind the stomach, roughly in the upper abdomen between the stomach and spine.
- Pain is typically felt in the upper belly or upper left abdomen.
- The pain often radiates to the back, which is a hallmark symptom of pancreatitis.
- It can be worse after eating or drinking and may feel better when leaning forward.
- In acute pancreatitis, the pain tends to be more sudden and severe, sometimes described as penetrating.
- In chronic pancreatitis, the pain may come and go but can become constant and severe over time
Associated symptoms that may accompany the pain:
- Tenderness when touching the abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and sweating
- Rapid pulse
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes) in some cases
- Weight loss and digestive issues in chronic cases
In summary, pancreatitis pain is mainly felt in the upper abdomen and often radiates to the back, with severity and pattern varying between acute and chronic forms of the disease
